John Wall might play for the Washington Wizards, but when it comes to the sneaker industry, he’s an unsigned free agent.
In fact, the two-time all-star has been without a deal since Sept. 30, when his contract with Adidas expired, reports the Washington Post.
Despite his availability on the sneaker market, Wall has vowed to keep it from becoming a distraction this season.
“My main focus is just play basketball. I let my agents and marketing team and them negotiate and talk,” Wall told the Post Saturday night. “I’m just trying to focus on the season and not worry about what’s going on off the court and play basketball.”
Wall, 25, had signed a five-year, $25 million contract with Reebok before he was selected first overall by the Wizards in 2010. However, injuries during Wall’s junior year forced him to miss 33 games and resulted in Reebok terminating the partnership. Wall then signed with Adidas, which owns Reebok, for the remaining duration of the contract.
It’s surprising that Wall remains unsigned, as he is indisputably the Wizards’ best player, averaging 16.6 points, 8.4 assists and 2.0 steals per game. Wall has emerged as a premier point guard in the NBA, and other young comparable point guards like Kyrie Irving, Damian Lillard, and last season’s MVP Stephen Curry all currently have their own signature shoe deals.
At least Wall can take solace in the fact that he has not one, but two of his own signature sneakers which debuted with Adidas that he still receive sales royalties from. Although, according to various reports, he has been seen wearing other brands at practice.
By the way, on the court, the Wizards beat the Detroit Pistons Saturday, 97-95.